The Identification of Metacompetence in Cognitive Behavioural Therapists

Literature Review

This literature review sought to explore how CBT therapists develop their practice with experience. A narrative synthesis of relevant journal articles indicated a weight towards adherence to disorder-specific protocols, with the suggestion that drift results in poor treatment outcomes. However, in practice most practitioners do not follow disorder-specific protocols, as they do not address the complexities of the clients they work with. The findings suggest that as therapists become more experienced, they tend to take a more formulation-based approach.

Service Evaluation

This study evaluated participants views on the impact of a five-day CBT course on their current working practice. Measures were taken at pre, post and follow-up. The feedback was generally positive with significant increases reported in knowledge and understanding. Ongoing supervision and support were highlighted as important in embedding learning.

Research Report

Metacompetencies are vaguely defined in the literature thus making them difficult to measure. This study attempted to investigate and specify what metacompetence looks like and how it develops in recently qualified and experienced CBT therapists. Template Analysis was used to explore the therapists justifications for a formulation and treatment plan for a complex client outlined in a vignette. Both groups reported a departure from disorder-specific protocols despite references to evidence-based practice. Differences in confidence impacting working with complexity was also highlighted. Results were discussed with regards to implications for training and supervision.